Singapore utilises both legislative controls and administrative measures to control marine pollution from land based sources. For example, the National Environment Agency (NEA) administers the Environmental Protection and Management Act (EPMA), which provides for the protection and management of the environment through controlling the discharge of trade effluent, oil, chemical, sewage or other polluting matters into the environment. The EPMA also ensure proper management of hazardous substances in an environmentally sound manner. Another example is the control of soil pollution, since pollutants in the soil are likely to make their way into the water system as run-off or groundwater. Other upstream controls implemented by NEA include (i) our integrated solid waste management system; and (ii) our anti-littering as well as waterways clean-up measures ensuring that land-based litter, including plastic waste, that might otherwise wash into the ocean is prevented from doing so.

NEA also works with partners from the People, Private and Public (3P) sectors on initiatives that contribute to reduce the generation of land-based solid waste, such as the Singapore Packaging Agreement. This voluntary Agreement is an initiative undertaken by the government, industry and non-governmental organisations, to reduce packaging waste.

Under the Sustainable Singapore Blueprint, which outlines Singapores national vision and plans for a more liveable and sustainable Singapore, Singapore will also be working towards becoming a Zero Waste Nation by reducing our consumption, and reusing and recycling materials.

Progress reports

2017

Singapore will continue to ensure that marine pollution from land based sources is minimised.